ORVALLIS, Ore. -- Anglers will have additional coho salmon fishing opportunity in the Santiam basin under new rules adopted by the Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife.

Effective Sept. 1, coho fishing will be allowed in the mainstem Santiam River, the North Fork up to the Stayton-Scio bridge in Stayton, and the South Fork up to the Grant Street bridge in Lebanon. The rivers above these points will remain closed to salmon fishing through Oct. 31 to protect spawning spring chinook.

This rule change was first implemented in the fall of 2009 to maximize angler access to an anticipated record return of coho to the upper Willamette basin. Though this year’s run is expected to be smaller, there should still be plenty of opportunity for anglers to harvest coho. The rule change will become permanent in 2011.

“We are pleased to be able to offer these additional opportunities to anglers.” said Steve Mamoyac, ODFW fish biologist for the South Willamette Watershed District.

Do you have a question or comment for ODFW? Contact ODFW's Public Service Representative at: odfw.info@state.or.us
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